Why is the water discolored at times?

Groundwater by its nature will contain dissolved minerals, including naturally occurring iron and manganese. These minerals settle out of the water as it ages and accumulate as sediment in the water mains. Water utility staff members regularly flush the mains through fire hydrants to remove this accumulated sediment, and that action or any other disturbance such as fire suppression, a main break, contractor work, or a flow test can stir up sediment that results in discolored water that can enter your service line if you use water during or immediately following the disturbance. If your water becomes discolored, just run a cold-water tap in the basement or at the lowest level at full force for about ten minutes or so until the water clears. Usually it clears in just a few minutes. If it doesn’t, please call MPW at 563-262-3361.